Give Each Page a Consistent Identifier
Label a collection of PDFs with identifiers such as BATES-000001. Choose where numbering begins in each document and keep the sequence continuous across files, while saving a separate result for every source.
How to Number Your PDF
Add PDFs in sequence
Choose the documents in the order you want numbered. Enter the correct password for protected files.
Set the Bates label
Choose a prefix, starting number, padding width and optional suffix. Set placement and appearance, then keep or disable continuous numbering.
Save the numbered files
Add the Bates numbers and download each completed PDF, or save the results together as a ZIP.
Add Bates Numbers to PDF: practical uses and limits
Apply a consistent Bates identifier sequence across PDF material that needs traceable page labels. Check prefix, suffix, padding and numbering order before using the labeled copies in a document set.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the default identifier format?
The defaults are the prefix BATES-, a starting number of 1 and six-digit padding, producing BATES-000001. You can change the prefix, suffix and padding width.
Does the sequence continue across files?
Yes, by default. Files are processed in the order added, and the next file continues after the previous file’s numbered pages. Disable continuous numbering to restart each document at the chosen number.
Can I skip a cover page?
Yes. Set Start page to 2 to begin stamping from the second page of each PDF. Only pages from the chosen start page are counted for the continuing sequence.
Will long numbers be cut off at the digit limit?
No. The digit setting is the minimum zero-padded width, from one to ten digits; it does not truncate a larger number.
Can I change the appearance?
Choose a top or bottom position, margin, font, font size and color. Available fonts are Arial, Helvetica, Times New Roman and Courier.
Are the PDFs merged?
No. Each source produces a separate numbered PDF. Multiple completed results can be downloaded individually or in one ZIP.
Does this remove existing labels or protect the document?
No. It adds new text without removing existing labels or adding password protection. Processing is local, and protected source files require the correct password.
Is this PDF tool completely free?
Yes. Processing and downloading results are completely free. Keep an original copy for future work.
